It can be hard to be a cyclist. Long commutes, difficult weather, and cars that are not afraid to get close to cyclists. This can lead to many an accident that can cause significant pain to both you and your bike. However, you don’t have to sit or cycle and take it. As a valid user on the road, you have rights that protect you and this article will help you especially if you have been in an accident recently.
Requirements
Depending on where you are in the world, there are certain rules that cyclists must obey when operating on the roads. These are essential rules to follow if you believe that you are to be due compensation from an accident. For example, across the US, cyclists must have lights, reflectors, brakes and be wearing a helmet. All of these ensure the safety of the cyclist and those around them.
Each state has its own specific rules on cyclists but some cover all of the US. These include going with the traffic flow rather than against it, always pass on the left, and when using a lane that has multiple directions stick to the right. By following these rules, you can ensure that you are being as safe as you possibly can. This can be essential if you need to make a claim following a bicycle accident.
Potential causes of accidents
You can be involved in an accident with a motor vehicle in several ways and these can be used to establish who is to blame. For example, driver inattention is one of the main causes of accidents on the road. However, this applies to cyclists as well. Something to watch out for is dangerous road conditions and who is to yield on a road, a car of the cyclist. All of these can lead to an accident and it is down to you to make sure that you know the rules and are following them when you are on the road.
Making a Claim
In the immediate aftermath of an accident, it is important to get yourself off the road and become safe. You should get the contact details of everyone involved if possible and anyone who witnessed the accident. Taking pictures of the accident and any damages to your property and will always be useful in making your claim. Also, you should keep a copy of the police report that you can refer to.
To make a claim, you need to know what you are claiming for. This can include personal injury, property damage, bicycle damage, and loss of earnings. This can be particularly important if you rely on your bicycle to get to work or you use it directly in your employment. With your evidence in place and your claim in mind, you should be able to make a strong compensation case.
Bicycle Accident Claims
Accidents that occur when you are on your bicycle can be terrifying not just for the immediate shock but for the damage that it may do to your employment and your possessions. Providing that you were following the rules, you will always have a strong case to make against any motorist who has caused an accident.